Situated on Kuhio Avenue in the lobby level of the inviting Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel, MAC 24/7 serves up “modern American cuisine” amid an upbeat, contemporary setting. MAC 24/7’s menu is fueled by the culinary creations of executive chef James Aptakin, who, along with his team of experienced chefs, continues to add new, exciting dishes designed to keep the dining experience fresh and engaging.

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“Our menu is really about whatever you’re craving; you can have your favorites anytime and you’re not confined by traditional dining windows,” says Mark Turina, food and beverage coordinator at Hilton Waikiki Beach.

Judging by the creative energy emanating from its kitchen and bar all day, every day, it’s easy to see why kamaaina and visitors alike enjoy the MAC 24/7 experience.

“With my 26-year background, I take the schooling as a foundation — you’re constantly studying the trends and incorporating what’s hot,” Aptakin explains. “When you listen to your crew, you’re unstoppable. You put together all those different ideas along with so much passion and that allows me to have fun, and the food showcases that. Local ingredients are better than anything you could get from the mainland and they’re available to us 24/7, just like we are for diners.”

The eatery continues to roll out enticing new menu items, including a pair of must-try starters. Fried Lobster Mac & Cheese Balls ($14) features an alluring truffle cheese sauce with lobster chili oil.

“We were able to take an existing menu item and use it to give you ‘a taste of what’s to come’ before starting your meal,” Turina shares. “It’s become one of our top appetizers.”

Shrimp Cebiche ($15)

Aptakin developed a love for food that was influenced in part by growing up in the rich culinary and cultural hotbed of Miami. The chef utilized flavors from South America and Hawaii when crafting Peruvian-style Shrimp Cebiche ($15), which includes purple potato, Kahuku corn, coconut milk, shrimp oil and an island-style medley of taro and sweet potato chips.

One of the best things about a 24-hour restaurant is that one can order breakfast favorites, including pancakes, around the clock. MAC 24/7 offers a host of selections, including Seasonal Short Stack ($14), the restaurant’s signature pancakes covered in ube, candied yams and pumpkin maple bourbon glaze. The decadent dish also is topped with a cinnamon cardamom streusel blend that ties the profile of fall flavors together.

“It gives you a perfect holiday vibe,” says Turina of the seasonal offering, which is expected to be available through Thanksgiving.

While local diners may be wary of venturing into Waikiki, MAC 24/7 is located near the quieter, Kapahulu end of the area and offers $3 validated valet parking — one of, if not the best, rates available in Waikiki.